After using Sodium, I tested it and found some unique features. Here is a detailed observation to give you a better insight.
Superb Rendering
Sodium performed excellently after being used. An optimization mod is required to provide better FPS, and Sodium perfectly meets that criteria. Its rendering method ensures that it uses your computer's resources efficiently. To truly test it out, I used my low-end computer, and Sodium increased the game’s performance to another level.
Minecraft used to struggle to run on my low-end computer. Yet, after using Sodium, I discovered a significant FPS boost, which is truly impressive.
Optimized Lighting
In vanilla Minecraft, I noticed that the lighting used to cause performance issues. However, Sodium fixes that issue. Instead, the mod upgrades how the lighting calculation works. This better lighting allowed me to perform significantly better in the game. Furthermore, I had no stutter or lag, even in areas with much illumination.
One example is that there would be instances of lag before using Sodium while using a redstone torch or flowstone. However, after using Sodium, those lags disappeared.
Enhanced Compatibility
Compatibility becomes a significant factor when using an optimization mod, as other mods might conflict with it. However, I found that Sodium works well with other mods. Yet, it might conflict with other performance mods, but other mods that increase the quality of life or overhaul the game work perfectly with Sodium while keeping the game's performance in check.
Lack of Native Shader Support
Optifine is the alternative to Sodium in the case of optimization mods. I found out that Sodium does not have any onboard shader support. Meanwhile, for Optifine it supports shaders natively. You need another mod to use shaders with Sodium. For me, it’s a con because I love using shaders.
However, Sodium is an optimal choice if you only want a performance boost. Optifine's performance is much better than that of other companies in various areas.
Faster World Loading
The initial world generation process was significantly faster when I opened a new world. Additionally, due to improved chunk loading, I saw that those areas could render with no performance issues, which enhances the game experience and makes it much more immersive.
Conclusion
Upon my analysis, I have really liked Sodium. I believe it indeed does enhance the experience in playing Minecraft and provides gamers with an elevated experience.
